The role of chromosomes in sex and gender

Question 1

Chromosomes

Answer 1

The X shaped bodies that carry all the genetic information

Question 2

Atypical sex chromosome patterns

Answer 2

Klinefelter's syndrome
- XXY configurations 
- Develops as a fairly normal male 
- Tall, less muscular, less facial hair etc 
Turner's syndrome 
- XO configuration 
- Born with vagina and womb 
- short, lack of monthly periods due to underdeveloped ovaries etc.

Question 3

Testosterone

Answer 3

• Primary sex hormone in males

Question 4

Oestrogen

Answer 4

Category of sex hormone responsible for the development and regulation of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics.

Question 5

Oxytocin

Answer 5

• Known as love hormone
• Promotes feelings of bonding in both men and women
• In women, it is important in breastfeeding as it causes milk to flow in a lactating mother
• In men and women it is related to orgasm and faster wound healing

Question 6

Evaluation- Biological determinism

Answer 6

• Biological factors have a key role in gender development

- David Reimer (intersex individual) was raised as a girl but showed a strong male identity

Question 7

Evaluation- Nature and Nurture

Answer 7

• The outcome for each individual appears to be a combination of genes, hormones, sex of rearing and socialisation.
• Gender development is part biological but experience as socialisation have a key role

Question 8

Evaluation- Intersex real world appl.

Answer 8

• Intersex society of N.A suggests intersex babies should be assigned a gender but no surgery should be conducted until the individual is able to make the decision themselves
• Psychological research has improved peoples’s lives